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HR 22

SPECIAL DAY/WEEK/MONTH: Designates April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Barbara Carpenter

Louisiana designates April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week to raise awareness of maternal health disparities affecting Black women.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HR 22

Legislative bill overview

HR 22 designates April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana. This is a symbolic resolution that recognizes and raises awareness about maternal health disparities affecting Black women in the state during this specific week.

Why is this important

Black maternal mortality and severe morbidity rates in the U.S. are significantly higher than for white women, reflecting systemic healthcare inequities. Designating an awareness week can help spotlight these disparities, encourage public dialogue, and potentially prompt policymakers and healthcare institutions to prioritize maternal health initiatives and resources for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may argue that naming a week does nothing to address underlying healthcare access, quality, or systemic issues without accompanying legislation or funding
  • Scope concerns: Some may question whether a state-level awareness week effectively reaches target communities or meaningfully influences healthcare provider practices
  • Implementation questions: Unclear what concrete actions or commitments state agencies or healthcare systems will undertake during this designated week

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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